Welfare Emotions 1

Sensation

The physical consequence of exposure to a stimulus, such as heat or pressure.

Feeling

An internal emotional state with no direct reference to external reactions.

Difference Between Sensation and Feeling

Sensation is a physical response to stimuli; feeling is an internal emotional experience.

Components of an Emotion

1) Subjective – what the animal feels, 2) Behavioral – what the animal displays, 3) Neurophysiological – how the body responds.

Examples of Emotional States

Joy, sadness, anger, surprise, disgust, and fear.

Limbic System

A network of brain structures located along the border (limbus) between the brainstem and neocortex.

Function of the Limbic System

Regulates emotions, behavior, motivation, and memory.

Major Parts of the Limbic System

Thalamus, hypothalamus, amygdala, and hippocampus.

Thalamus

The brain’s relay center that determines which sensory inputs are processed or ignored and directs information to appropriate areas.

Amygdala

Almond-shaped brain structure responsible for fear, anxiety, aggression, and pleasure.

Hypothalamus

Connects the brain to the body, regulates hormones, body temperature, and maintains homeostasis.

Hippocampus

Seahorse-shaped structure crucial for memory consolidation, spatial navigation, and emotional regulation.

Relationship Between Limbic System and Emotions

The limbic system integrates physiological and behavioral components of emotion, influencing how animals perceive and react to their environment.